There seems to be a theme running with the latest art exhibitions I’m covering. Similar to what I said about Dylan Thomas Graham, Santu Mofokeng’s show, at gallery momo, similarly asks its viewers to construct their own meaning, find their own narrative.
At first.
One major difference between this show and Dylan’s is that Santu has very obviously been doing this for a long time. Each image is prolific, articulate, precise, and beautiful in its own way. But the other major difference is that, on further inspection (and a bit of prodding), the personal explorations of Santu become ours as well.
The show centers around images of his brother – who Santu recently found out is HIV positive. One of these images, eyes wide shut, then takes us on a journey through the rest; some very literal, some rather potent-tho-banal-looking-at-first. Each photo takes on new form in the story, once we know its backdrop. Walk through a few times; ask a few questions.
As usual, worth checking out.
I should also mention that I heard fantastic things about Lesego Rampolokeng’s book launch, which I could not make, last night (at the very same gallery). Despite my little run-in with his publisher, rumor has it that there was a great turn-out, and Lesego’s reading was as interesting and entertaining (this, we all know) as he was personable (so much for M&G biases).
I’m gonna pick me up a copy of his book, blackheart, at the local Exclusive Books, and put some words up here about it at the first chance I get (may be a while, but that’s a promise).
